The island of Ischia , the pearl of the Gulf of Naples, has been famous for centuries for its thermal waters , used since ancient times for their healing properties. The thermal waters of Ischia were initially appreciated by the Greeks and Romans , who built numerous thermal baths and shaped legends and stories to represent the "magical" power of these waters. Legends, as we know, have a grain of truth. Let's discover together what the science and myths of the Ischia spas are , a health as well as historical and cultural heritage.
Origin of the Thermal Waters of Ischia
An island of volcanic origin , Ischia owes the presence of its renowned thermal waters to its geological nature. The volcanic activity that has shaped the island has created a network of thermal springs that flow at different temperatures and with different mineral compositions . These waters are rich in minerals such as sulphur, iodine and sodium chloride, which give unique therapeutic properties. The thermal and hyperthermal waters of Ischia are known for their benefits on the skin, joints and respiratory system. Ixya , with its line of products based on hyperthermal water , exploits these properties to create skincare solutions that combine tradition and innovation, based on solid scientific research. But before this research, the myth existed , which still pervades this little Mediterranean treasure.
Let's discover some of the island's legends together.
The Legend of Nitrodi
The source of Nitrodi in Ischia is one of the sources that boasts a mythological past.
Legend tells of a devastating epidemic that afflicted the population of ancient Pithecusa (Ischia). Having consulted the oracle, the Cumaean Sibyl revealed that only a Nymph could bring salvation. Iale , a Dryad, then stole nitre and sulfur from the gods, to mix with the waters of the island. Unfortunately she was discovered and turned into stone , from which water flowed , testifying to her guilt. The source was called Nitrodi, in memory of the stolen nitre.
The Myth of Typhoeus
Among the most well-known and intriguing myths of the island is that of the rebel giant, the titan Tifeo .
Son of Earth and the Underworld, he challenged Zeus and was defeated. For his pride, he was buried under the island of Ischia . Typhoeus roared, breathed fire and shook himself in an attempt to free himself, thus causing eruptions and earthquakes , but it was all in vain. Aphrodite , who took pity on his crying, freed him, transforming his tears into the waters that today we call "thermal".
Spa Tourism yesterday and today
Today we know that science has confirmed the intuitions of the legends . Maybe giants and nymphs don't exist, but the thermal waters of Ischia, rich in minerals such as sulphur, nitro and trace elements, have real therapeutic benefits.
For this reason, over a period of several centuries, the spas of Ischia have transformed into real tourist attractions . The evolution of spas has seen an increase in accommodation facilities and the integration of modern wellness centres, such as the Ixya Beauty Lounges , which offer exclusive treatments based on the benefits of thermal waters.
Yesterday as today, whether for health needs or for pleasure, spas are a place that irresistibly attracts us.
Maybe there is still some magic in the waters of Ischia after all.